- विज्ञापन -
Patna: The Supreme Court of India provided relief to a 16-year-old girl who had been coerced into child marriage, and ordered the Bihar and Delhi Police to ensure her safety, along with that of her friend. The girl, who approached the court, revealed that her family had married her off to a contractor aged around 32-33 years on December 9, 2024, citing a loan they had taken.
A bench comprising Justices Ujjal Bhuyan and Manmohan directed the DGP of Bihar and the Police Commissioner of Delhi to safeguard the girl and her friend, and to prevent any harm to them. The court also requested a status report from the police and instructed them to remain in contact with the girl and her friend, so assistance can be provided promptly if needed.
The girl, a resident of Bihar, filed the petition through her friend, detailing that her family forcibly married her and that she has suffered physical abuse and harassment from her in-laws. She mentioned that she had recently completed her Class 10 exams and wished to continue her education, but her in-laws oppose this. She appealed to the Supreme Court for protection from her family and husband, and for the annulment of her forced marriage under the Child Marriage Prohibition Act, 2006.
She also explained that she ran away voluntarily with her friend, fearing retribution. However, her family has filed a kidnapping case against her friend, hiding the fact that she was married. Her husband, a civil contractor, has reportedly been involved personally in the case and has threatened in Madhopur village that he would not hesitate to kill her if she returned to Bihar or was caught by police.
According to her plea, her husband claimed that her parents owed him money, and insisted she stay in the marriage instead of pursuing her dreams of becoming a teacher or lawyer. The girl is currently on the run with her friend, Saurabh Kumar, fearing they may be harmed if they go back or are found during the police search.
She requested protection from any coercive actions by the police until her case is legally resolved.
